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Paediatric infectious diseases Speciality in Mukundapur

Paediatric infectious diseases

Paediatric infectious diseases Speciality in Mukundapur

Paediatric infectious disorders comprise a spectrum of ailments primarily affecting children and newborns that are caused by microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites. These illnesses can impact different organ systems and necessitate distinct treatment modalities. They can also differ greatly in severity and appearance. Common examples include gastrointestinal diseases like norovirus and rotavirus, skin infections like impetigo and cellulitis, and respiratory infections like influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
Many paediatric infectious disorders can be prevented and/or reduced in severity with vaccination. However, since their immune systems are still developing and they are constantly exposed to unfamiliar situations, babies and young children are especially vulnerable to illnesses. Clinical assessment, laboratory testing, and occasionally imaging studies are all part of the diagnosis process to identify the precise microbe causing the disease. If you are looking for Paediatric infectious diseases treatment in Mukundapur, reach out to Manipal Hospitals.

FAQ's

Children are more prone to getting ill due to weak immune systems and developing bodies. They catch infectious diseases very fast. The most common infectious diseases affecting children are:

  • Gastrointestinal infections like rotavirus, norovirus

  • Respiratory infections like pneumonia, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus

  • Ear infections

  • Urinary tract infections

  • Skin infections

  • Strep throat

  • Chickenpox

  • Whooping cough

  • Measles, mumps, and rubella

Some infectious diseases need immediate medical treatment, so it is important to consult a doctor immediately if your child shows any of the signs below:

  • Persistent high fever

  • Lethargic or unresponsive

  • Difficulty breathing

  • Dehydration signs like reduced urine, dry eyes

  • Severe or worsening pain

  • Signs of urinary tract infection like frequent urination or pain while urinating

  • Has a rash followed by fever

The varicella-zoster virus, which belongs to the herpesvirus family, is the culprit behind chickenpox. Adults may potentially develop shingles later in life due to this virus. Chickenpox is extremely contagious and can spread quickly, starting one to two days before blisters emerge and continuing until all of the blisters have fully crusted over.

Both direct contact with blister fluid and respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing can transmit the virus. Children are the main victims, with a characteristic itching rash of red dots that develops into blisters filled with fluid before crusting over. Vaccinating against it and quickly isolating infected people are essential to stop chickenpox from spreading.
 

Newborns, children, and teenagers are most commonly affected by pertussis, also known as whooping cough, due to their vulnerability before receiving the pertussis vaccine at two months old. Respiratory droplets from children or caregivers with the infection are the means of transmission. The initial symptoms may look like a regular cold, but they eventually develop into intense, protracted coughing episodes that produce a characteristic "whooping" sound when inhaled. Pneumonia and convulsions are two significant complications that can occur, especially in babies.

Immunisation is essential for shielding young infants against pertussis. It is crucial to control outbreaks and lessen the disease's impact on public health through early detection, antibiotic treatment, and vaccination campaigns. This highlights the significance of immunisation in preventing poor consequences in susceptible populations.
 

You can protect your child from infectious diseases by following these preventive measures:

  • Wash your hands more often with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom, playing, and before eating.

  • Take all vaccinations as required for chickenpox, pertussis, influenza, and measles.

  • Avoid close contact with a sick person.

  • Always practice good hygiene, like covering your mouth while coughing and washing your hands.

  • Provide adequate rest and nutrition to your child, which supports their immune system.

Infectious diseases are highly communicable and can either spread directly or indirectly. In direct contact, the germs spread from one infected person to another, causing infection. In the indirect spread, the infection spreads from the infected person to the environment, like door handles, benches, toys, etc., from where it reaches another person who comes in contact with such contaminated surfaces. Infectious diseases can also spread through air transmission, consuming contaminated food or water, and through insect bites.
 

For diagnosing infectious diseases in children, the paediatrician will go through your child’s medical history, conduct a physical examination, and make your child undergo a variety of tests. It could be a blood test, urine test, throat swab, or immunologic test to detect antibodies produced by the body. Imaging tests like ultrasounds or X-rays may also be needed if required. Sometimes culture tests are also done to identify the source of infection, such as bacteria, fungi, or viruses.
 

The source of infectious diseases is microorganisms. Thus, the treatment depends on the type and severity of the infection. Antibiotics are mostly used to treat bacterial infections. For viral infections, supportive care like giving more fluids and rest is generally recommended. In some cases, antiviral medications may also be used. Antifungal medicines are used for fungal infections and antiparasitic medications for parasitic infections. More severe cases may require hospitalisation for intravenous medication administration and continuous monitoring.
 

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